Meet Our DAISY & BEE Award Winners

Venice was nominated by two patients who noted how she often goes the extra mile for her patients, no matter how busy she is. One nominator said, “Venice Dee has exactly what is required to make it in psych. Even though she’s often the charge nurse and is incredibly busy with a multitude of things, she somehow manages to make each of her patients feel like they are her only patient. She makes everyone feel seen. She remembers that I often struggle at a particular time of day some days and makes sure to check on me. This reminds me that I’m not alone. She’s the kind of nurse that truly cares. From safety searches to room searches that I may or may not have had on several occasions, Venice’s instincts are always on point. …I’ll be beyond grateful for those instincts that have kept me safe.” Another nominator said, “After arriving here on Grove Suite, I was scared and nervous, not knowing what to expect. My first evening here I met Ms. Venice, and I knew I was in good hands. She helped me understand my medication when I was lost. She had no idea how important it was to me.”  

Birtena was nominated by a colleague: “For exceptional clinical skill, steady leadership and profound impact on patients and colleagues. When I was giving my first long-acting injection, this nurse stood beside me throughout the entire process offering quiet guidance as needed. Birtena is remarkably quick in assessing a patent’s needs and guides the team thoughtfully and with a therapeutic response to the patients rather than a reactive one. This nurse’s interventions immediately promote safety and de-escalation, and comfort to the patients. This nurse creates a psychologically safe environment where staff and patients feel comfortable to ask questions, express uncertainty, and learn. Birtena offers guidance instead of judgement without hesitation. As a new nurse, this nurse’s mentorship has been invaluable.”

A patient nominated Diana for the award, detailing how her compassion and skills helped them through their inpatient stay: “This nurse has what it takes to work in psych. They can smile and laugh with patients but can also be no-nonsense when the situation calls for it. I was being treated for a psychiatric condition that made my stay on the unit extremely difficult. On more than one occasion I had to get my room searched or my body searched. It was very hard time for me. I didn't want to be alive. I didn't care about anything, and I gave up on pretending to care. This nurse was my nurse each time the searches happened. This nurse was very attentive, compassionate, and caring. This nurse had what it took to care about me when I couldn’t. This nurse said it’s their responsibility to care when I cannot. I'm forever grateful to them. Their kind demeanor and words of solace will never be forgotten.”

Robert was nominated by a colleague, who shared the following story: “… When serving as a charge nurse, he still finds the time to spend hours with as many patients as possible every shift... I can remember him speaking to a specific patient who I can call "Tim"... Seeing that Tim had difficulty getting his peers to interact, this nurse would spend hours on a daily basis ensuring that Tim felt as though he belonged and was able to give him a sense of confidence in his own interests. This allowed Tim to become more confident when interacting with his peers in the milieu and led to Tim being able to reap far more of the benefits of a therapeutic milieu. This is thank you in no small part to his efforts to not only maintain the basic safety of his patients, but also foster an environment and milieu where patients can be reminded that they are far more than cases, but in fact human beings deserving of attention, care, and compassion.”

Five patients nominated Asia for the BEE Award, noting how helpful and friendly she was during their stay. One patient said, “Asia was my first point of contact when I came into the hospital. Asia is always willing to go out of her way to be helpful. A lot of employees are great, but this mental health worker has that special touch that helps you feel cared for.” Another shared, “From day one Asia was helpful. I began yelling at her and she still took time to assist me the best way she could.” Additional nominators noted that she is understanding, has the best outlook and keeps the mood light, and has a welcoming spirit. “ She was noted for multitasking with ease and is very present for her patients!  

Madison was recognized by both a patient and a colleague for their excellence:

Patient nomination: “Each time I ask for coloring pictures, Madison printed what I wanted, the second time Madison overheard me and another patient asking for coloring pages and volunteered to do it since others did not know how. Madison makes sure patients are as comfortable as possible despite circumstances.” 

Colleague nomination: “Madison goes above and beyond every time. Comes in with amazing energy, patience and understanding. If there is a time that I need to talk, Madison is always available to talk with me. The day goes way better, calm and organized. Madison runs amazing groups and loves what she does.”

Cardesza received several nominations. Here's one from a colleague that highlights what makes her an extraordinary mental health worker: "Her compassion and empathy shines through in everything she does. She consistently goes above and beyond in her care for the children—not only by tending to their hygiene and personal needs with gentleness and respect, but also ensuring the environment around them is clean, safe, and comforting. Her dedication is unwavering. Every day, she shows up with purpose and a quiet strength, never seeking recognition but always earning it. She treats each child with dignity and kindness, and her presence brings a sense of calm and reassurance to both staff and families alike. Her work ethic, reliability, and genuine concern for others make her an invaluable part of the team. She doesn’t just do the work—she elevates the standard for what care should look like."

LaTrelle’s commitment to going the extra mile for patients was celebrated in this nomination, written by a patient: “LaTrelle went above and beyond by finding me resources about self-love and self-worth. He also found resources to give to my family on how to treat a mental health patient that is newly discharged. I appreciate him greatly...”